architects' choice

Timberlake works Rheinzink panels into his designs from top (roofing) to bottom (the zinc-clad bath shown) because “this is a 50- to 100-year material” and “the gray to black color is really nice.” He also feels good about the ecological benefits of the material, which has a life cycle that requires little energy to extract and process, will endure both time and the elements, and is fully recyclable. Rheinzink America, 617.871.6777; www.rheinzink.com.